North Devon Council is planning to replace a footbridge that closed more than two years ago due to safety concerns. The bridge is part of a popular circular walk in the Whiddon Valley in Barnstaple and has been criticised by members of the council's strategy and resources committee. The council has no budget to replace the bridge and will need to rely on its parks reserve fund of £23,000. The western bank of the stream belongs to North Devon Council, while the eastern bank is believed to have declined to contribute. An inspection in early 2024 found rotten beams and the council did not approve a temporary repair to reopen the bridge.